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TRAVELERS WILL SOON NEED TO OBTAIN OFFICIAL PERMISSION TO ENTER THE UK
In conjunction with its goal of fully digitizing border systems by 2025, the UK has announced that it will soon require inbound international travelers to obtain a British entry permit document, reports Travel Pulse. Called the Electronic Travel Authorization UK (ETA UK), approval will be mandatory for all foreign travelers looking to enter or transit the UK, including those who are nationals of visa-free countries, such as the United States. Additionally, the requirement will apply to all types of visitors, including, “those traveling to the UK for tourism, business, short-term education and medical reasons.” The ETA system is intended to optimize the UK’s entry and exit processes, as part of a wider “permission to travel” policy. Inbound travelers will be able to apply from home and the application form should take only a few minutes to fill out; individuals will need to provide valid passport data, some personal information, travel plans, and a debit or credit card. Applications will be processed automatically, and most people are expected to receive authorization within 48-72 hours. As of now, the UK government has yet to announce a release date for the online application process, but officials expect the ETA system to be fully implemented by the end of 2023.
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ONGOING WINTER WEATHER CONTINUES TO CAUSE FLIGHT DISRUPTIONS
Ongoing winter weather across the US continues to cause flight disruptions, reports CNN.
Ice storms in the central and southern parts of the country this week have caused thousands of delayed or canceled flights from Colorado to Kentucky. On Wednesday alone, over 2,100 flights have been cancelled and 1,500 delayed, according to the airplane tracking website FlightAware. Three airports in Texas are facing the most challenges: Austin Bergstrom International (AUS), Dallas-Fort Worth International (DFW), and Dallas Love Field (DAL). The hardest-hit airlines are also based in Texas, including American and Southwest. On Monday, Southwest Airlines issued a winter weather waiver across a dozen airports; it applies to affected travel between January 30 to February 1. American Airlines updated its winter weather waiver on Tuesday to include nearly 20 airports for travel from January 29 to February 2. Several airports are also posting updates on Twitter.
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REFUNDS, FLIGHTS IN US LAWMAKER PROPOSALS TO PROTECT AIR TRAVELERS
US air travelers would be offered refunds for delayed flights and transportation on rival carriers under new consumer protections proposed on Tuesday, reports Reuters. Senators Richard Blumenthal and Edward Markey have introduced the measures under the "Passengers’ Bill of Rights and the Forbidding Airlines from Imposing Ridiculous Fees (FAIR) Act." Lawmakers said the measures would require airlines to pay at least $1,350 to travelers that are denied boarding as a result of an oversold flight, prohibit airlines from further reducing seat sizes pending regulatory changes, and give travelers new rights to sue airlines for unfair practices. A group of House of Representatives lawmakers also introduced the FAIR act which they said would "prohibit airlines from charging unreasonable fees... not proportional to the costs of the service actually provided."
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UNITED AIRLINES ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH SUSTAINABLE AVIATION FUEL
United Airlines has announced a new joint venture agreement with two biofuel companies to develop new sustainable aviation fuel technology using ethanol. The Blue Blade Energy project is a joint venture with Tallgrass and Green Plains, Inc.; the partnership is expected to produce enough sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) to power 50,000 flights between Chicago and Denver per year by 2028. United Airlines Ventures president Michael Leskinen stated, "The magnitude of this deal and the volume of SAF that it could bring online in this decade dwarfs everything else." Testing of the specific SAF technology is expected to begin next year, and a full-scale production facility is planned to become operational in 2028. The partnership is a step towards United’s objective is to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050; ethanol-based jet fuels are a key step toward that milestone.
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HOW THE FAA IS WORKING TO PREVENT ANOTHER COMPUTER OUTAGE 'MELTDOWN'
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has made policy changes to prevent future computer outages in response to last month's incident that led to a grounding of flights nationwide, reports Travel + Leisure. The FAA “now requires at least two individuals to be present during the maintenance of the NOTAM system, including one federal manager,” the administration wrote in a letter sent to lawmakers. Acting FAA Administrator Billy Nolen added that changes have been made to prevent a corrupt file from damaging a backup database. Additionally, the House of Representatives passed a bill establishing a task force to study potential improvements to the NOTAM system, according to the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. “The recent NOTAM system meltdown highlighted a huge vulnerability in our air transportation system and underscores the need to address the leadership vacuum at FAA,” Committee Chairman Sam Graves said in a statement.
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C. BALDWIN, CURIO COLLECTION BY HILTON | |
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400 DALLAS STREET
HOUSTON
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Awarded #2 Best Hotel in Houston by Travel + Leisure readers and located in the heart of downtown, the C.Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton redefines the idea of modern indulgence in a luxe hotel experience. Through a fusion of sensuous materials, sophisticated touches, impressive guest rooms, and incomparable culinary offerings, the C.Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton holds secrets of the past and promises of the future. C. Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton’s accommodations offer a boldly stylish décor, floor-to-ceiling windows, glamorous textures, and 55-inch multimedia TVs. Premium rooms and suites provide enhanced views of the city. Dine in Top Chef Masters winner Chef Chris Cosentino’s most personal endeavor to date, Rosalie Italian Soul, or enjoy a craft cocktail in the Lobby Bar. At the end of the day, a retreat awaits. | | |
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151 WEST 54TH STREET
NEW YORK CITY
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Located in the heart of Manhattan, Conrad New York Midtown offers discerning business travelers a uniquely spacious and inherently residential retreat. Enjoy 24-hour in-room dining or the 1,500 square foot fitness center after a long day of work. Conrad New York Midtown invites guests to discover an energizing atmosphere at Dabble, dedicated to inventive cuisine and classic cocktails. Dabble is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a great place to connect with colleagues or unwind and dine alone. Conrad New York Midtown is here to make business stays both inspiring and productive. | |
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Enjoy complimentary access to the thermal floor at the spa ESPA Life when staying at Corinthia London. Spread across four floors, the spa features 17 treatment rooms, a private spa suite and indoor swimming pool, vitality pool, amphitheater sauna, ice fountain, marble heated loungers, and private sleep pods.
Corinthia London is proud to partner with AMP (Athletic Medical Performance). AMP’s approach is centered around Small Group Personal Training (SGPT) specializing in elite coaching with small groups of 3-4 people maximum. Their training program delivers superb results in strength, endurance, and body composition. SGPT classes are provided complimentary daily with approximately 6 classes per day. In addition to the SGPT classes, daily yoga classes are also provided in the tranquil Studio.
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HOTEL FAIRMONT SAN FRANCISCO | |
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950 MASON STREET
SAN FRANCISCO
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World-renowned, Fairmont San Francisco presents the grandeur of luxury with the best panoramic views in the city coupled with a reputation for impeccable service to deliver a truly memorable experience. Known for prestige and heritage, this grand, centrally located property has hosted some of the most influential meetings, events and personalized occasions of the century. Take in San Francisco’s most breathtaking vistas. Choose from 606 graceful rooms and suites: the sophistication of the iconic Main Building to the celebrated panoramic views of the 23-story contemporary Tower Building.
Enjoy full-service amenities with dining options including onsite restaurants and in-room dining, a wide array of business services such as Wi-Fi, audio visual, unique meetings spaces, and more as guests seek comfort and luxury during their stay. The grandest of stays begins with Fairmont San Francisco.
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HILTON BOSTON LOGAN AIRPORT | |
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Come to Hilton Boston Logan Airport and experience the only full-service hotel directly connected to Boston Logan Airport via a covered walkway. The 604-room Hilton Boston Logan Airport is the perfect base for meetings, or for travelers looking to discover New England’s rich history and attractions, including the diversity of Downton Boston just a few miles away. While onsite, enjoy an array of culinary options including Berkshires restaurant serving a-la-carte dining, Connolly’s Publik House gastropub, and Café Presto for light meals and on-the-go options. Amenities include an indoor pool and 6,000 square foot fitness center, while sleek guest rooms and suites feature digital key and options such as confirmed connecting rooms and select rooms with awe-inspiring views of the airport action or Boston skyline. For those in town for business or an event, the hotel features more than 30,000 square feet of flexible indoor and outdoor event space, as well as a business center. | | |
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131 MADISON AVENUE
NEW YORK CITY
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Hotel AKA NoMad, opening in the Spring of 2023, is a boutique property offering 178 guestrooms, including 15 specialty suites. It is the fourth New York City location for AKA, a global leader in luxury hospitality in key US cities and Europe.
The Hotel AKA NoMad offers guests a refined and sophisticated oasis in NYC with design influences from Japan to Scandinavia, natural elements and neutral colors aimed to offer a respite for guests looking for a sense of home.
Guests will enjoy luxurious rooms, suites, and top of the line amenities, such as a wine bar, library lounge that opens to a terrace with plans for an outdoor cinema, and more.
Award-winning chef, Greg Vernick, named Best Chef: Mid-Atlantic by the James Beard Foundation, will create the culinary and drink concept at Hotel AKA NoMad which will include a dining option featuring a wine bar and lounge just off the hotel’s lobby.
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PETIT ERMITAGE - WEST HOLLYWOOD | |
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8822 CYNTHIA STREET
WEST HOLLYWOOD
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Petit Ermitage is a private European style, all suite luxury hotel, in a quiet residential area between Sunset Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard with 80 suites, of which no two are exactly alike. Converted from luxury private residences, Petit Ermitage is both hotel and home. Each space grants front row tickets to sublime sunsets and expansive views of Los Angeles. Choose from fine dining, poolside lounging, or fireside craft cocktails to transport guests to a galaxy far, far away. Escapism never felt so good. | |
SONESTA FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH | |
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999 NORTH FORT LAUDERDALE BEACH BOULEVARD
FORT LAUDERDALE
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Welcome to Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach. From the newly renovated oceanfront boutique hotel to apartment style studio suites with full kitchens, Sonesta Fort Lauderdale Beach has everything needed to enjoy Fort Lauderdale at its finest. Enjoy ocean front accommodations, waived resort fee, discounted parking, free Wi-Fi, and pet friendly amenities. Be minutes away from downtown Fort Lauderdale, Hard Rock Stadium, Fort Lauderdale International Airport, and Port Everglades Cruise Terminal. Start the day with a beautiful sunset from guest rooms and finish it up with ocean front dining at Steelpan restaurant, all while enjoying a front row view of the majestic Atlantic Ocean and the pristine white beaches of the sunshine state.
Ovation clients always enjoy ocean front accommodations, waived resort fees (a $49 per day savings), discounted parking (a $15 per day savings), and double Sonesta Travel Pass points.
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A revitalized, Neo-gothic landmark in a thriving urban setting, The Joule is a cultural hub, dining and retail destination, and neighborhood gathering place, all wrapped in a luxury boutique hotel.
An oasis for design lovers, art admirers, and appreciators of the uncommon, The Joule’s 160-room resort presents the unique opportunity to be in the center of it all - with two destination restaurants, a subterranean cocktail lounge, an award-winning spa, and more than a century of stories.
Check in and prepare to check out from the ordinary. From the moment guests enter through The Joule's large brass doors, guests are sure to be taken care of. Stay for work, linger for play – The Joule knows the best ways to do both in style.
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TRUMP INTERNATIONAL HOTEL AND TOWER CHICAGO | |
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401 NORTH WABASH AVENUE
CHICAGO
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Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago is a showcase of bold style and engaging design situated in the heart of Chicago. Conveniently located to all leisure attractions as well as business offices, Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago conveys the perfect destination for all travelers.
Guests will immerse in luxury with unrivaled hospitality and extravagant amenities, including personalized concierge service, 24-hour in-room dining, 24-hour business center, chauffeured house cars, complimentary wireless Internet, and more. Incredibly appointed guest rooms and suites welcome guests with floor-to-ceiling windows and fully equipped kitchens. Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago offers exceptional dining from the ever-evolving menu of Neo Japanese fare in Rebar to American cuisine at Terrace 16 complemented by stunning views from the outdoor rooftop oasis. The Spa at Trump & Fitness Club features innovative treatment rooms, a heated indoor swimming pool, and state-of-the-art exercise equipment.
Leaving no detail overlooked, Trump International Hotel and Tower Chicago’s professional team offers the skills and expertise vital to make every trip a success.
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WALDORF ASTORIA WASHINGTON, DC | |
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1100 PENNSYLVANIA AVENUE NW
WASHINGTON, DC
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Bringing stunning design and unforgettable experiences to Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington’s iconic Old Post Office has been reimagined as Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC. The hotel features 263 elegant, restored guest rooms including a collection of luxurious one-bedroom Signature Suites. Surrounded by a soaring 9-story atrium sits the legendary Peacock Alley and the soon-to-open The Bazaar by José Andrés offering a carefully curated theater of shared plates from the ground-breaking culinary artistry of Michelin-starred chef José Andrés and his José Andrés Group team. Waldorf Astoria Spa invites relaxation and rejuvenation with six treatment rooms and a tranquil Himalayan salt therapy room. Just steps from the White House, Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC is conveniently set amid DC’s greatest cultural institutions and attractions.
Ovation clients are invited to discover this unique haven with a complimentary upgrade (based on availability at check-in) and special amenity upon arrival. Valid for stays now through March 31, 2023.
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GBT Travel Services UK Limited (GBT UK) and its authorized sublicensees (including Ovation Travel Group and Egencia) use certain trademarks and service marks of American Express Company or its subsidiaries (American Express) in the “American Express Global Business Travel” and “American Express Meetings & Events” brands and in connection with its business for permitted uses only under a limited license from American Express (Licensed Marks). The Licensed Marks are trademarks or service marks of, and the property of, American Express. GBT UK is a subsidiary of Global Business Travel Group, Inc. (NYSE: GBTG). American Express holds a minority interest in GBTG, which operates as a separate company from American Express. | | | | |
